Name Release - Helicopter Crash, Milford Track

Name Release - Helicopter Crash, Milford Track

Te Anau Police have released the name of the pilot who died when a Hughes 500 helicopter crashed in steep terrain at Glade Burn, near the start of the Milford Track.

He was William Bruce Andrews (known as Bruce) aged 49 years. Mr Andrews was from the Te Anau area and a pilot for Milford Helicopters. He was the sole occupant in the helicopter.

An Invercargill Police search and rescue team went to the crash scene this morning and have recovered Mr Andrews' body.

Mr Andrews' helicopter failed to arrive at its destination at Dumpling Hut on the Milford Track last evening and searchers yesterday located the helicopter's wreckage, in a search coordinated by the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ).

The matter has now been referred to the Civil Aviation Authority and the coroner.

Police extend their sympathies to Mr Andrews' family. The family have asked the media to respect their privacy.

ENDS

Released by Senior Sergeant Cynthia Fairley, Western Southland Sub-Area Commander

Note to media: for a photo of Mr Andrews and of the crash scene please contact 021 192 3803